The summer had passed, and an unusually warm autumn had begun. Long shadows and shorter days meant that the holidays: candy, pumpkin pie, turkey, and hot coffee, were soon to come. And the weather was of the kind that most people in this region of the world would recognize as - an Indian Summer - . This pleasant climate came with a welcome beauty that had appeared with the changing of leaves: which had turned to red, gold, purple and brown. But the most notable change was on the football field. Because, for the first time in a long while, the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame, fielded a team that threatened to become a national champion.
Now, the University of Michigan took the grid iron with the usual confidence expected from a long-standing rival. After trading the number one position with the Irish, they were fully ready to fight for the title once again. It was in this atmosphere that Tammy and James found themselves: amongst old friends, beer, and the Blue and Gold and Maize.
"So, James, thanks for inviting me." Said Tammy, as they left the tail-gaters in the parking lot.
They were just about inside the stadium tunnel when James took hold of Tammy's hand.
"What are you doing?" Said Tammy, a little surprised at how good it felt, to have her hand, held, by James rather large, and surprisingly rough, feeling hand.
"I don't want you to get lost." Said James.
"I ah... thanks?"
"No problem.
"So, um. Why are you holding my hand?"
Well, you wanted me to chase you, so here's unemotional me making the effort."
"Well, don't do me any favors. I don't need your pity."
"I know, but, how about this."
Without warning, he kisses her in the middle of a crowd. After relinquishing his grasp, he looks at Tammy with a half-smile, while onlookers applaud.
"James! Not in front of all these people. They might get the wrong idea."
"Let's hope."
"What's got into you!?" Said Tammy.
"You!"
"What?"
"Well, I came to the realization that I should try a little harder to be your... Boyfriend."
"Did, you." Said Tammy.
"Yeah. But I've got to tell you, I don't like the term... Boyfriend."
"Well, thank you for making your feelings known... I guess."
"I thought it only fair."
"Did you have anything in mind... Significant other? Maybe?"
"I don't understand."
"For a title... Anything else you would like to be dubbed."
"Ah, I see. Well, I prefer we ignore the term all together: and, particularly at parties."
"Ok, then if I decide to... be in a romantic relationship with you, I'll respect your wishes."
"I knew you'd understand. I'm pleased."
"No, you're not! What about your girlfriend!?"
"Well, it would ruin our travel plans."
"Travel plans! No, wait, it's none of my business."
They enter the stands and search for their seats.
"So, how is Laura? I guess things are getting serious." Said Tammy.
YOU ARE READING
In The Shadow Of The Tower
Science FictionTwo super-rich kids grow into young adulthood and struggle with their feelings for one another. She has loved him for quite some time, but he is unsure and needs to figure things out. She is also engineered by her father's company to love someone el...
